Sailing to Panama

We know there’s a ferry from Cartagena to Panama, crossing the infamous Darien Gap. But why take the easy way? Why not sail to Panama? That should be fun! How little did we know…

As soon as we lift the anker, we all help putting the sails up. Ludwig our captain shouts to his helpers, because it all needs to be done fast. There are only five guests on board: Simone and Philipp, Igor, Juri and the two of us. By the end of the day, we are thankful it’s just the five of us…

Waves are so high and we have side wind too! We reach inclinations of 25 to 30 degrees, I don’t know about that, but to me that sounds like a lot! Good for me, we brought sea sickness pills and about two hours out in the open sea everybody except Elmar is doped up and asleep on deck! Elmar’s got sea legs apparently. 😉
Thank God the pills work and we are able to enjoy the trip, when the sun sets a group of dolphins come and play with the ship! It’s fun to see them jump around, some have little ones too.

Sunset on the Stahlratte to Panama

The Stahlratte sailboat

After a very restless night, with us being thrown all over the place, we reach the San Blas Islands; beautiful bounty islands set in turquois waters with white sandy beaches. We have a bbq on the beach and the next day we spend snorkeling, fishing and jumping of the boat. Like a short tropical holiday! A smooth ride the next day brings us to mainland Panama.

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